Stabilizer pad configurations

ABSTRACT

Pad assemblies configured to be used in conjunction with stabilizer pads mounted onto stabilizer arms used to stabilize earth moving and other construction equipment. The pad assemblies are formed from either a resilient laminate or solid piece mounted onto a bracket which in turn is mounted onto the stabilizer pad. The pad assemble includes a support bracket, and a pad having a base captured in the support bracket and formed of a resilient material that defines a base surface. The pad is being retained by said support bracket and has a ground engaging surface opposite to the base surface and defined as an uneven ground engaging surface formed of separate ground engaging pad surface areas that terminate at different distances from the base surface.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of application Ser.No. 09/575,931 filed May 23, 2000, which, in turn, is a continuation ofapplication Ser. No. 09/070,638 filed Apr. 30, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No.6,109,650. The applicant hereby makes a claim to priority to both of theabove applications. Furthermore, the above applications as well as U.S.Pat. Nos. 4,761,021; 5,050,904; 5,054,812; 4,889,362; 5,564,871;5,466,004; 5,547,220; 5,667,245; 5,992,883; 5,957,496; 6,109,650;6,270,119; 6,422,603 are all hereby incorporated by reference in theirentirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This invention relates generally to stabilizer pads for vehicles,and more particularly to improved stabilizer pad configurations whichcan be used in conjunction with a pivotally mounted, two-way stabilizerpads.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Construction equipment, such as earth-moving vehicles and thelike, must be stabilized during construction or digging operations toprevent movement of the equipment or vehicles. Typically, stabilizationis provided by hydraulically actuated arms that extend from the vehicleand that have earth-engaging pads mounted on their distal ends. When thevehicle or equipment is moved into a working position, if extrastability is needed, the stabilizer arms are hydraulically operated tomove from a retracted position, in which the arms generally extendupwardly and out of the way, to a user position in which the arms extenddownwardly at an acute angle to the ground surface so that the padscontact the ground surface. When it is desired to move the vehicle, thearms are returned to the retracted position, and the vehicle is moved toa new operating location.

[0004] Reversible stabilizer pads for construction equipment, such asearth-moving vehicles and the like, are well-known in the prior art.Examples of such pads are found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,761,021 and4,889,362. Such stabilizer pads generally have a first surface forengagement with a softer surface, such as gravel and soft earth, and amore resilient second surface on the opposite side of the first surfacefor engagement with harder surfaces, such as concrete or asphalt.Typically, the first surface includes flanges with grouser points thatpermit the pads to dig into the softer, unfinished surface formed bygravel or soft earth, to better anchor and stabilize the vehicle whenencountering difficult digging conditions. The first surface isunsuitable for contact with a hard surface, since the grouser pointscould damage or mar the hard asphalt or concrete. The second surface ofthe pad typically is formed of a laminated, rubber pad for betterstability on the more solid surface provided by concrete or asphalt. Thestabilizer pad typically is pivotally mounted to the distal end of thehydraulically operated arm so that the pad may be rotated to contact theground with either the first surface or the second surface.

[0005] While such prior art laminated structures are suitable forengagement with concrete or asphalt, the construction of such pads isexpensive, labor-intensive and time consuming. It is desirable toprovide suitable laminated pad assemblies for use on the resilient,second surface of the stabilizer pad that can be fabricated in anautomated manner, and that provide improved stability and longer wear.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] To achieve the foregoing desired objectives, in accordance withthe present invention improved, there are provided resilient, laminatedstabilizer pad assemblies for stabilizer pads for use on the side of thepad opposite the grouser points for engagement with hard asphalt orconcrete surfaces. The improved pad assemblies of the present inventionare preferably for use in conjunction with reversible stabilizer pads,but may also find use in connection with other pad applications.

[0007] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, theresilient stabilizer pad assemblies include a bracket which typically isformed from a piece of metal and which is bent or otherwise deformed topartially surround and capture the resilient portion of the padassembly. The resilient portion of the pad assembly typically is alaminate formed of a plurality of parallel layers of rubber or otherlike materials. The laminate is attached to the bracket by a connectoror pin which passes through each of the layers of the laminate.Extending from an upper surface of the bracket are a plurality ofmounting devices, such as studs or bolts which are adapted to passthrough a plate on the stabilizer pad to permit the attachment andremoval of the pad assemblies as needed.

[0008] In another aspect of the invention, each of the brackets isformed of a planar piece of material such as steel which is bent duringthe forming process. In one embodiment flaps are formed which capturethe laminate between them and hold the layers together. To prevent theupper flat surface of the bracket from bowing during the formingprocess, a force must be applied downwardly toward the laminate. Inanother aspect of the present invention, a reverse bend or camber isapplied to the upper flat surface of the bracket to offset the bowingtendency of the bracket. In another embodiment, reinforcing ribs areprovided to prevent bowing of the bracket.

[0009] In another embodiment, bowing of the bracket may be minimized andbending of the flaps may be facilitated by the removal of material alongthe fold lines, such as by forming score lines or holes or the likealong the fold lines.

[0010] In another aspect of the invention, various techniques may beutilized to secure and restrain the laminated layers, including a nutand bolt, welded pins, or a pin welded at one end and threaded at theother for attachment of a nut.

[0011] In yet another aspect of the present invention, inaccuracies orlack of standardization of the thicknesses of the layers of the laminatecan be accommodated by the provision of a compressible layer of materialdisposed amongst the layers of the laminate that may be compressed tothe desired size by applying lateral forces to the laminate.

[0012] In yet another aspect of the invention, the laminate may beaffixed to the bracket by lips extending from flaps on the bracket intonotches or channels formed in the laminate.

[0013] In yet another aspect of the invention, the laminate may includemultiple projections and is affixed to a metal frame which includesstrips residing in valleys disposed between the projections formed inthe laminate.

[0014] In yet another further aspect of the invention, the layers of thelaminate may not be of all the same height. Rather, they may be steppedin such a manner that the layers adjacent the flaps of the bracket havethe smallest height, while the layers in the center of the pad farthestfrom the flaps have the greatest height. This arrangement preventssplaying of layers of the laminate closest to the flaps of the bracket.

[0015] In still another aspect of the invention there is provided astabilizer pad construction that is characterized by improved grippingwith the ground surface. This minimizes slipping of the pad,particularly on smoother surfaces such as paved surfaces of asphalt orconcrete. An uneven ground-contacting surface of the pad assures thisperformance. Such a surface may be formed by grooves, slots, nubs,dimples, ribs and/or other uneven surface patterns. In a preferredembodiment the ground-contacting surface is of a “waved” pattern formedin a resilient laminate.

[0016] Other embodiments of this invention relate to the methods forassembling the pad assemblies described above.

[0017] The foregoing pad assemblies made in accordance with the presentinvention can be constructed more quickly and cheaply than prior art padassemblies which required multiple, manual steps. Such pad assembliesprovide superior performance and may be attached to and removed fromexisting stabilizer pads in the same manner as prior art pad assemblies.Finally, particularly with respect to some of the embodiments describedabove, the structures permit a greater thickness of resilient materialbelow the lower edge of the bracket, thus providing a longer life to thepad.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] The objects, advantages and features of this invention will bemore clearly appreciated from the following detailed description whentaken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0019]FIG. 1 is a fragmentary, pictorial view of a typical prior artloader/backhoe having stabilizer arms with pads;

[0020]FIG. 2 is an exploded, plan view of one surface of the stabilizerpad of FIG. 1;

[0021]FIG. 3 is a plan view of the opposite side of the stabilizer padof FIG. 2 illustrating the resilient pad assemblies;

[0022]FIG. 4 is an exploded, perspective view of one embodiment of a padassembly of the present invention;

[0023]FIG. 5 is an elevational, end-view illustrating assembly of thepad assembly of FIG. 4;

[0024]FIG. 6 is an elevational, end-view of the pad assembly of FIG. 4in its assembled condition;

[0025]FIG. 7 is an elevational, end-view of another embodiment of thepad assembly of this invention;

[0026]FIG. 8 is an elevational end-view of the pad assembly of FIG. 7 inits assembled condition;

[0027]FIG. 9 is an exploded, perspective view of another embodiment ofthe pad assembly of this invention;

[0028]FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional, end-view illustrating assembly ofthe pad assembly of FIG. 9;

[0029]FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional, end-view of the pad assembly of FIG.9 in its assembled condition;

[0030]FIG. 12 is an exploded, perspective view of yet another embodimentof the bracket of this invention;

[0031]FIG. 13 is an elevational, end-view illustrating assembly of thebracket of FIG. 12;

[0032]FIG. 14 is an elevational end-view of the assembly of FIG. 13 inits assembled condition;

[0033]FIG. 15 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the bracketof this invention;

[0034]FIG. 16 is an elevational, end-view of a pad assembly utilizingthe bracket of FIG. 15;

[0035]FIG. 17 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of thebracket of this invention;

[0036]FIG. 18 is a perspective view of yet another further embodiment ofthe bracket of this invention;

[0037]FIG. 19 is an exploded, perspective view illustrating a tool forassembly of pad assemblies of this invention;

[0038]FIG. 20 is an elevational, end-view showing use of the tool ofFIG. 19;

[0039]FIG. 21 is an elevational, end-view showing a further assemblystep utilizing the tool of FIG. 19;

[0040]FIG. 22 is an elevational, end-view illustrating potentialproblems encountered with formation of pad assemblies;

[0041]FIG. 23 is an elevational end view illustrating another embodimentof the present invention that overcomes the problem illustrated in FIG.22;

[0042]FIG. 24 is an elevational end-view of the pad assembly of FIG. 23in its assembled condition;

[0043]FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional end-view of a pad assemblyillustrating one embodiment of an attachment element of this invention;

[0044]FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional end-view of a pad assemblyillustrating another embodiment of the attachment element of thisinvention;

[0045]FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional end-view of a pad assemblyillustrating yet another embodiment of the attachment element of thisinvention;

[0046]FIG. 28 is an exploded, elevational, side view of yet anotherembodiment of the pad assembly of this invention;

[0047]FIG. 29 is an elevational side view of the pad assembly of FIG. 28in its assembled condition;

[0048]FIG. 30 is an exploded, perspective view of yet another embodimentof the pad assembly of this invention;

[0049]FIG. 31 is an elevational, end-view of the assembled pad assemblyof FIG. 30;

[0050]FIG. 32 is an elevational, broken, side view of the pad assemblyof FIG. 30 in its assembled condition;

[0051]FIG. 33 is a cutaway, perspective view of yet another embodimentof the pad assembly of this invention;

[0052]FIG. 34 is a side, elevational view of the pad assembly of FIG.33;

[0053]FIG. 35 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the padassembly of this invention;

[0054]FIG. 36 is an exploded, perspective view of the pad assembly ofFIG. 35;

[0055]FIG. 37 is a perspective view of yet another further embodiment ofthe pad assembly of this invention;

[0056]FIG. 38 is an elevational, end-view of another configuration ofthe embodiment of the pad assembly of FIG. 37;

[0057]FIG. 39 is a perspective view of yet another configuration of theembodiment of the pad assembly of FIG. 37;

[0058]FIG. 40 is a perspective view of yet another pad constructiondepicted with the ground engaging surface facing upwardly;

[0059]FIG. 41 is a side elevation view of the pad of FIG. 40 with theground engaging surface facing downwardly;

[0060]FIG. 42 is a perspective view of still another pad construction inwhich the separate laminate layers have cross-ribs definingcross-grooves;

[0061]FIG. 43 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a padconstruction using cross-ribs and cross-grooves in a solid padconstruction;

[0062]FIG. 44 is a perspective view illustrating still another padconstruction including a laminated pad having alternating heightlaminate segments or layers;

[0063]FIG. 45 is a perspective view of a pad construction held by abracket pocket and illustrating a dimpled surface;

[0064]FIG. 46 is a perspective view similar to that illustrated in FIG.45 but instead showing upstanding nubs;

[0065]FIG. 47 is a perspective view employing a bracket pocket for thepad and in which the pad construction has a treaded ground engagingsurface; and

[0066]FIG. 48 is a fragmentary view showing an alternate embodiment tothat described in FIG. 40 in which the adjacent layers of the laminateare linearly staggered in position one from the other.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0067] FIGS. 1-3 illustrate a typical piece of construction equipment orearth-moving apparatus, such as a loader/backhoe 10 with which thestabilizer pad assemblies of this invention are intended to be utilized.Backhoe 10 includes a shovel mechanism 12, stabilizer arms 14 and 16 andassociated stabilizer pads 18 and 20 respectively. Hydraulic piston 15typically operates each stabilizer arm 14 and 16 independently of theother. FIG. 1 illustrates the positions of arms 14 and 16 duringoperation of the shovel mechanism to provide the desired lateralstability to backhoe 10 to prevent lateral movement of backhoe 10. Ascan be seen, arms 14 and 16 are disposed on opposite sides of backhoe 10adjacent shovel mechanism 12. Each arm 14 and 16 extends from backhoe 10to form an acute angle with respect to an underlying surface 11 uponwhich backhoe 10 and arms 14 and 16 rest. Surface 11 typically could beformed of soil, rock, asphalt, gravel or concrete, although backhoe 10may be used in conjunction with other types of surfaces where a diggingoperation is desired. As can be seen in FIG. 1, pads 18 and 20 pressagainst surface 11. The angle formed by arms 14 and 16 with respect tosurface 11 is such that pads 18 and 20 typically are disposed outwardlyaway from the center of backhoe 10 beyond the tires of backhoe 10,although a position closer to backhoe 10 within the outer edge of thetires is also possible. When it is desired to stop the digging operationand move backhoe 10 to a different location, pistons 15 associated witheach arm 14 and 16 are withdrawn so that arms 14 and 16 pivot upwardlyaway from surface 11 so that pads 18 and 20 are elevated above surface11 and are not in contact therewith.

[0068] Pads 18 and 20 preferably are pivotally mounted to the distalends of respective arms 14 and 16. This pivotal mounting permits thepads to accommodate the acute angle between arms 14 and 16 and surface11 and permits the pads to be flipped from one position to another, sothat either side of the pad may be selectively placed in position toengage surface 11. The pads may be flipped when they are elevated abovesurface 11 by piston 15. Once the flipping operation has been completed,hydraulic piston 15 may be actuated to lower arms 14 and 16 untilrespective pads 18 and 20 are in engagement with surface 11, as shown inFIG. 1.

[0069]FIG. 2 illustrates the structure of one side of a typical pad 18or 20, while FIG. 3 illustrates the structure of the opposite side ofthe same pad 18 or 20. The side of pad 18 or 20 illustrated in FIG. 2typically is used on a yielding surface such as dirt or gravel where oneis not concerned with whether the surface is defaced or broken. The sideof the pad illustrated in FIG. 2 displays a hard surface with noresiliency and with projections as will be described. The side of thepad illustrated in FIG. 3 is for use with asphalt or concrete where itis undesirable for the pad to dig into the surface or mark the surface,and where some level of resiliency is desired.

[0070] Pads 18 and 20 each include a substantially flat plate 22. On theside of plate 22 shown in FIG. 2, flanges 24 and 26 extend from plate 22generally perpendicularly of the surface thereof.

[0071] As illustrated in FIG. 2, upstanding ribs 28 are provided andextend outwardly away from respective flanges 24 and 26 to providestructural strength. Disposed between flanges 24 and 26 is a notch orcutout 30. The width of notch 30 is at least as wide as arm 14 or 16 toaccommodate arm 14 or 16 during rotation of pad 18 or 20. A pin 34extends through the distal end of arm 14 or 16 and through associatedholes 35 and 36 in respective flanges 24 and 26 to pivotally mount arm14 or 16 to respective pad 18 or 20. Pin 34 may be secured in placeusing a cotter pin, or pin 34 may be threaded to accommodate a nut forretaining pad 18 or 20 on respective arm 14 or 16.

[0072] Typically, grouser points 24 a and 24 b are found on an edge offlange 24, and grouser points 26 a and 26 b are found on an edge offlange 26. Grouser points 24 a, 24 b, 26 a and 26 b engage surface 11.As a result, there are four points of contact per pad providingstability to the pad, and preventing rocking of the pad. Preferably,grouser points 24 a and 24 b on flange 24 and grouser points 26 a and 26b on flange 26 are disposed symmetrically about the pivot point definedby pin 34 so as to enhance the stability of the pad.

[0073] With reference now to FIG. 3, the resilient side of each pad 18and 20 will be described. FIG. 3 illustrates three pad assemblies 40,although fewer or more pad assemblies could be used depending on theparticular construction of pads 18 and 20. Each pad assembly 40typically comprises a laminate 42 formed of a plurality of layers 41which are compressed together. Typically, layers 41 are held together bya bolt 44. Typically, each layer 41 is pre-drilled with holes when cutto receive the bolts 44. Each pad assembly 40 is secured to plate 22 bya series of bolts 46 or the like having associated nuts 48.

[0074] Preferably, each layer 41 is formed of rubber or some otherresilient material. Each layer 41 typically has a thickness of the orderof ¼″ to ¾″ in its uncompressed state, and preferably has a thickness ofabout ¼″ in an uncompressed state. In a typical laminate 42, eight toten layers 41 may be employed, although a larger or smaller number maybe used for particular applications. A preferred material for layers 41is a sidewall segment of a truck-tire carcass. It is preferred not touse steel belted tires for forming layers 41 because it is moredifficult to cut a steel belted tire into the desired sizes and shapes.Truck tires are preferred as the source of material for layers 41because truck tires typically are of 10-ply or greater. A multiple-plytruck tire is preferred because it provides a relatively high ratio ofcord to rubber thickness. The thickness of the cord that provides theprimary stability is preferably four times that of the thickness of therubber in such tires. The greater the ply number of the tire, thegreater is the stability of the laminate formed by layers 41. As aresult, each layer 41 is of a proper thickness and provides the properdurability and stiffness.

[0075] A first embodiment of the pad assemblies of this invention willnow be described with particular reference to FIGS. 4-6. Like numberswill be used for like parts where applicable. Pad assembly 50 of thisinvention includes a bracket 52 and laminate 54 that is substantiallyidentical to laminate 42. In this embodiment, bolts 46 typically areeither pressed in place studs, or are more traditional carriage boltswhich extend through bracket 52, as shown, to allow mounting of assembly50 to plate 22.

[0076] Bracket 52 typically is formed of a sheet of steel or the like,which is cut to size, and which is in a flat configuration prior toassembly. During the assembly process, bracket 52 is deformed along foldor bend lines 56 to form side flaps 58 to capture laminate 54therebetween. Preferably, laminate 54 has been pre-formed into thedesired thickness, and so that the distance between fold lines 56 isequal to the thickness of laminate 54. Holes 57 in laminate 54 and holes59 in flaps 58 have been pre-drilled and are aligned during the assemblyprocess as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. Thereafter, connector devices 53 areinserted therethrough to secure laminate 54 between flaps 58. Devices 53typically are carriage bolts with associated nuts 51 as shown, althoughdevices 53 could be other types of connectors as will be described. Theassembly process typically is a two step process in which flaps 58 arefolded about lines 56 to capture laminate 54 in a first step, and inwhich devices 53 are inserted in a second step. The heads of bolts 46are imbedded into the top surface of laminate 54 when the assembly iscomplete.

[0077] During the folding of flaps 58 about lines 56, there is atendency for the upper surface of bracket 52 to bow upwardly away fromlaminate 54 as shown by the dashed line in FIG. 6. A flat upper surfaceof bracket 52 is desired, so that when assembly 50 is attached to plate22, the bond is secure, and there is no rocking or movement of assembly50 with respect to plate 22. Any such rocking or movement would provideinstability which is undesired and which could be detrimental to thestability of apparatus 10. Therefore, during the forming process,appropriate pressure must be placed downwardly against the upper surfaceof bracket 52 and against flaps 58 as shown by the arrows in FIG. 6.

[0078] Another embodiment of this invention will now be described withreference to FIGS. 7 and 8. This embodiment minimizes or prevents thebowing just described with respect to the upper surface of bracket 52.Bracket 60 of FIGS. 7 and 8 includes a top surface 64 and side flaps 66.As illustrated in FIG. 7, during the formation of bracket 60, a reversecamber or bend 62 is applied to surface 64 prior to or simultaneouslywith the formation of flaps 66. In this way, when a tool is utilized toapply pressure as illustrated by the arrows in FIG. 8 to force bracket60 downwardly onto laminate 54 and to apply the necessary lateralpressure to flaps 66, the reverse bend 62 in surface 64 prevents orminimizes the bowing illustrated in FIG. 6. This reverse bend 62 couldbe an actual crease applied in upper surface 64 by bending bracket 60about a tool, or reverse bend 62 could be a more gradual and less abruptcamber applied to surface 64 with a large radius of curvature, such asby pre-stressing surface 64 in a known manner. Thus, when pressure isapplied to align the holes in flaps 66 with the holes in laminate 54during the formation process, as shown by the arrows 61 and 63, thetendency of upper surface 64 to bow upwardly is offset by bend 62 sothat the result is a generally flat upper surface 64 as shown in FIG. 8.

[0079] Another embodiment of the pad assembly of this invention will nowbe described with reference to FIGS. 9-11. The embodiment of FIGS. 9-11also overcomes the problem of bowing of the upper surface of thebracket. This embodiment includes laminate 78 and bracket 70 thatincludes top surface 74 and side flaps 72. Bracket 70 includesreinforcing ribs 76 on upper surface 74, to provide a desired level ofstrength and rigidity to surface 74. Preferably, ribs 76 representportions of surface 74 which have been deformed downwardly as shown inFIGS. 9-11 to form a depression in surface 74 that extends downwardlybelow the lower surface of surface 74. Alternatively, ribs 76 could beseparate strips of material that are either welded or in some other waybonded to the lower side of surface 74. FIG. 9 illustrates two such ribs76, although one rib or more than two ribs could also be used so long asthe desired rigidity is provided to surface 74. To accommodate ribs 76,laminate 78 has corresponding cutouts 79 that are formed in an uppersurface and that are at least as large as ribs 76 to allow ribs 76 toseat therein when the assembly is fully formed, as shown in FIGS. 10 and11. Laminate 78 is identical in all other respects to laminate 54,except for the provision of cutouts 79, and will not be furtherdescribed.

[0080] During the assembly process, typically ribs 76 are formed oradded at the same time that the stock is initially cut from whichbracket 70 is formed. If the ribs are formed from the material ofbracket 70, ribs 76 are stamped into bracket 70 in a known manner. Thus,bracket 70 would be provided as a flat sheet with the ribs stampedtherein. During the assembly process, bracket 70 is placed on the top oflaminate 78 as shown in FIG. 10. Thereafter, a tool applies a lateralforce to bend flaps 72 as shown by arrows 71 while downward pressure isapplied to surface 74 as shown by arrows 73. Once the desiredconfiguration has been formed, bolts 53 are inserted and nuts areapplied in a known manner. Any bowing of surface 74 is prevented by ribs76 so that a flat surface is provided.

[0081] Another embodiment of this invention will now be described withreference to FIGS. 12-14, and includes bracket 80 and laminate 54.Bracket 80 of this embodiment includes top surface 81 and side flaps 84.This embodiment further includes a reinforcing plate 82 made of a metalsuch as steel or the like which is disposed between top surface 81 andlaminate 54. Plate 82 provides several functions. In the first place,plate 82 provides a bearing surface or anvil about which flaps 84 may befolded to form fold lines 83. By dimensioning plate 82 to besubstantially equal in width to the width of laminate 54, it can beassured that during the assembly process, fold lines 83 are formed inthe right position to permit flaps 84 to tightly capture laminate 54therebetween. Secondly, plate 82 assures that straight and sharp foldlines 83 are formed during the assembly process. Thirdly, plate 82provides reinforcement to upper surface 81 to provide additionalstrength to the assembly. Fourthly, plate 82 assists in preventingbowing of upper surface 81. Finally, as shown in FIG. 12, square orrectangular cutouts 88 can be provided for bolts 86 that attach the padassembly to plate 22. If the heads of bolts 86 are provided withcorrespondingly formed, square or rectangular portions 87 which seatwithin cutouts 88, rotation of bolts 86 is prevented during the processof attaching the assembly to plate 22.

[0082] As illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14, flaps 84 of bracket 80 arebent along fold lines 83 as previously described during the assemblyprocess. A tool provides the necessary force to the top surface 81 andto flaps 84 as illustrated by the arrows in FIG. 14 to complete theassembly process, and to allow a bolt or pin 53 to be inserted throughholes formed in flaps 84 and in laminate 54, as previously discussed. Asforce is applied to upper surface 84, plate 82 is urged into contactwith an adjacent surface of laminate 54 and the head of each bolt 46 isembedded into laminate 54.

[0083] FIGS. 15-18 illustrate another aspect of the present invention inwhich the formation of fold lines and bending of the flaps on thebracket are facilitated. In particular, in FIGS. 15 and 16, the plate ofsheet metal which is to be formed into bracket 90 is provided with a cutor score line 93 where each fold line is to be formed for a flap 94. Cut93 can be formed using a stamp, a saw blade or some other like sharpdevice which removes material and provides an area of reduced thicknessalong the fold line used to form flap 94. Typically, although notnecessarily, cut 93 extends less than halfway through the thickness ofthe material of bracket 90, so that the strength of bracket 90 is notunduly compromised. Bracket 90 is then formed in the manner previouslydescribed by the use of a tool which provides lateral forces on flaps 94and a downward force on surface 92 to cause flaps 94 to bend about thecut 93 and into the shape as shown in FIG. 16.

[0084]FIGS. 17 and 18 illustrate alternative embodiments related to thisaspect of the invention. Instead of cuts 93, bracket 100 includescutouts 102 along fold lines 104 to permit formation of flaps 106.Cutouts 102 of necessity must be spaced from one another and extendentirely through the material forming bracket 100. As illustrated inFIG. 17, cutouts 102 preferably are slots elongated along the fold line.Cutouts 102 may be formed by stamping, drilling, milling or by any otherknown technique. Cutouts 102 could also be circular in shape and moreclosely spaced to provide the same effect. Cutouts 102 function ingenerally the same fashion as cuts 93. Cutouts 102 should be spacedsufficiently to allow formation of flaps 106 but should be sufficientlyclose to provide the desired structural strength.

[0085] In FIG. 18, cutouts 102 and cuts 93 are replaced by dimples 109.Dimples 109 represent a series of spaced depressions aligned along foldline 104. Dimples 109 do not extend all the way through the material ofbracket 100. Rather, they represent removal of enough material to extendpart of the way through the material to provide a weakened area alongfold line 104. Dimples 109 may be stamped, drilled, milled or formed inany other conventional manner so long as dimples 109 do not extendentirely through the material of bracket 100. Dimples 109 should bespaced sufficiently far apart so that the material of bracket 100retains the structural strength necessary to hold together layers 54.However, dimples 109 should be sufficiently close that fold line 104 isadequately defined and flap 106 is readily bent.

[0086] The provision of cuts 93, cutouts 102 or dimples 109 has severalbenefits. In the first place, any upward bowing of the top surface ofthe bracket is minimized, since there is lesser resistance to thebending of the flaps. Secondly, the provision of cuts 93, cutouts 102 ordimples 109 ensures that the flaps are bent or formed at precisely thelocations desired to minimize if not totally eliminate any toleranceerrors due to tool malfunction or movement of the bracket duringassembly. Thirdly, cuts 93, cutouts 102 or dimples 109 permit areduction in the amount of lateral force required to be applied to theflaps, as the flaps will more easily bend.

[0087] Another aspect of the present invention will now be describedwith reference to FIGS. 19-21 which illustrate a tool 120 that may beused to form any of the embodiments of FIGS. 4-18. Pad assembly 110 ofFIG. 19 represents any one of the embodiments of FIGS. 4-18 and includeslaminate 115 and bracket 112 having an upper surface 113 and flaps 114.Laminate 115 is captured between flaps 114 as previously discussed.Studs or bolts 111A and 111B allow mounting of assembly 110 to plate 22as previously discussed.

[0088] Tool 120 includes a mounting shaft 123, top plate 121, spacedside legs 117, and side plate 122. Shaft 123 is adapted to be affixed ormounted onto a conventional machine tool that raises and lowers tool 120as necessary to perform the assembly process. Top plate 121 applies adownward force to surface 113 to drive it against laminate 115 tominimize bowing of surface 113. Legs 117 and plate 122 serve to bendflaps 114 about fold lines 125 during the forming process. The loweredges of plate 122 and legs 117 are provided with sloped surfaces 126 tofacilitate the bending process and to permit engagement of flaps 114without causing any lateral movement of bracket 112 as it is beingformed. Preferably, the spacing between the inside surface of plate 122and the inside surfaces of legs 117 and 119 is equal to the thickness oflaminate 115 plus the thickness of flaps 114, or equal to the formingbetween fold lines 125. Legs 117 preferably are spaced from one anotherby a gap 116 sufficient to accommodate the head of a bolt 128 extendingthrough flaps 114 and laminate 115. Top plate 121 preferably includes aslot 118 to accommodate a bolt or stud 111B during the stamping process.Back plate 122 preferably includes a cutout 129 to accommodate the endof a bolt 128 and a nut 127.

[0089] The method of this aspect of the invention will now be describedwith reference to FIGS. 19-21. Initially, laminate 115 is formed bycutting and aligning its layers. Holes designed to accommodate aplurality of bolts 128 are drilled through the laminate 115 in adirection perpendicular to the alignment of the individual layers aspreviously discussed. Bolts 111A and 111B are inserted through uppersurface 113 of bracket 112 and are pressed in place, or are otherwiserestrained in a known manner to prevent them from falling out, and toprevent bolts 111A and 111B from rotating. Thereafter, bracket 112 isplaced on top of laminate 115 on support platform 124, such as the bedof a machine tool, as shown in FIGS. 19 and 20. Typically, bracket 112initially has a generally planar configuration and is aligned such thatfold lines 125, whether previously formed or not, are aligned with theouter edges of laminate 115. If no fold lines have been previouslyformed, bracket 112 in its planar configuration is roughly centered onlaminate 115 so that appropriate material needed to form flaps 114 isdisposed on either side of laminate 115 and so that flaps 114 are of thesame width on both sides of laminate 115. Thereafter, the machine tool(not shown) drives shaft 123 and thus tool 120 downwardly as illustratedin FIG. 20 so that sloped surfaces 126 on plate 122 and legs 117 and 119engage flaps 114 bending them downwardly and about fold lines 125.Typically, tool 120 has a width less than the spacing between bolts111A, so that tool 120 is completely disposed between bolts 111A and iscentered roughly on bolt 111B. However, for different configurations ofbolts 111A and 111B, a different size or shaped tool could be provided.For example, if four or more bolts 111A and 111B were utilized, tool 120could have holes or cutouts to accommodate each of these bolts.

[0090] As flaps 114 are engaged by sloped surfaces 126, flaps 114 bendabout fold lines 125. Initially, some upward bowing of surface 113 maybe expected. As tool 120 continues to drop in the direction shown by thearrow in FIGS. 20 and 21, sloped surfaces 126 continue to bend flaps114. As tool 120 continues to drop farther, the non-sloped portions ofplate 122 and legs 117 and 119 engage flaps 114 to provide a sharp bendto fold lines 125, and to provide a lateral force on flaps 114 urgingflaps 114 toward each other to capture laminate 115 therebetween. Asshown in FIG. 21, as top plate 121 comes to rest on surface 113, surface113 no longer demonstrates any bowing, and fold lines 125 are sharplydefined by the right angles formed by the inside surfaces of top plate121 and legs 117 and 119 and backplate 122, as illustrated in FIG. 21.

[0091] At this point, in one embodiment, tool 120 may be raised offbracket 112, and bolts 128 may be inserted and nuts 127 may be attached.In another embodiment, while tool 120 is in place, a bolt 128 may beinserted through gap 116 and a nut 127 may be applied through cutout129. This embodiment may be preferred where fold lines 125 have not beenpreviously formed or where fold lines 125 are not disposed alongweakened or reduced thickness portions of bracket 112 and where there issome risk that once tool 120 has been removed, flaps 114 may riseupwardly slightly off laminate 115. If bolt 128 and associated nut 127are applied while tool 120 is still in place to hold flaps 114downwardly, once tool 120 is removed, flaps 114 will be incapable ofmoving, and the remainder of bolts 128 can be inserted through the otherholes drilled through flaps 114 without fear of disassembly. Once all ofbolts 128 and nuts 127 have been affixed, assembly 110 is ready formounting onto a plate 22.

[0092] Another aspect of the present invention will now be describedwith reference to FIGS. 22-24. FIG. 22 illustrates a problem thatpotentially arises when layers of laminate 54 are not of uniformthickness. This problem could arise where the sidewalls of truck tiresare employed for forming laminate 54, and different truck tires are usedfor different layers, or where different sized truck tires are used fordifferent layers, or where the tires used have undergone varying amountsof wear. For example, as shown in FIG. 22, layer 138 is thicker than anyof the other layers, as exemplified by layer 137. Moreover, layer 139 isthinner than layer 137 or layer 138 or any of the other layers. As aresult of the varying thicknesses of layers 137, 138 and 139, theoverall thickness of laminate 54, WL , is less than the distance Dbetween fold lines 134 of bracket 132. As a result, as flaps 136 arefolded downwardly, flaps 136 are not tightly pressed against laminate54, resulting in the possibility that laminate 54 could shift withrespect to bracket 132, or that after assembly, the movement permittedbetween laminate 54 and bracket 132 could result in an unstablestabilizer pad which would permit undesired movement of backhoe 10 andexcessive wear of laminate 54. It is equally undesirable for thedistance WL to be greater than the distance D, as it may be difficult ifnot impossible to bend flaps 136 into a position perpendicular to uppersurface 135, resulting in a bulging assembly 130 and one in which it isvery difficult to insert a bolt 53 or the like to properly securelaminate 54 to bracket 132.

[0093] Because of the unpredictability of the thicknesses of layers 137,138 and 139, and because of quality control problems, it sometimes isdifficult if not impossible to specify exactly where fold lines 134should be located.

[0094] One solution to the foregoing problem is illustrated in FIGS. 23and 24. In this aspect of the invention, laminate 54 is provided with alayer 140 that is formed of a material that is more resilient thanlayers 137, 138 and 139 and that is suitably compressible and yet stillprovides the performance desired for the material of laminate 54. Layer140 has a thickness WI that causes laminate 54 to have a width, WLgreater than the distance D between fold lines 134 when layer 140 is inits fully expanded and uncompressed state. The assembly processpreviously described compresses layer 140 of laminate 54 so that thedistance D between fold lines 134 becomes equal to the width WL oflaminate 54, as illustrated in FIG. 24. Bolt 53 and nut 51 are thenmounted onto assembly 130 in the usual manner to hold the assemblytogether.

[0095] The exact initial width WI of layer 140 in its uncompressed stateis not important, so long as it produces a width WL of laminate 54greater than distance D between fold lines 134. In this way, theassembly of layers 137, 138 and 139 could be somewhat random, so long asa layer 140 is used, and so long as the resulting width WL is somewhatgreater than distance D. This embodiment permits a person assembling padassembly 130 to do so more quickly with less attention to detail anddecreases the tolerance requirements as to the permitted thicknesses oflayers 137, 138 and 139. The result is a shorter assembly time andtherefore a less expensive final product. Similarly, the width W2 oflayer 140 in its compressed state is unimportant, so long as the finalwidth W2 is one to which layer 140 may be readily compressed using theforces resulting from the assembly techniques previously described. Apreferred width WI is about the same as the widths for layers 137, and afinal width W2 preferably is the same as the width of layer 139, orless.

[0096] Layer 140 must be sufficiently compressible that the forceapplied to it during assembly of pad assembly 130 is able to compress itto width W2. For example, tool 120, as illustrated in FIGS. 19-21 shouldbe sufficient to compress layer 140 from WI to a width W2 as shown inFIG. 24. A preferred material for layer 140 is either an open or closedcell foam of Shore 00 and a durometer hardness in the range of betweenabout 30 and about 65. A material formed of a rubber that has beensuitably molded and provided with the desired resilience, strength andcompressibility could also be used for layer 140.

[0097] Alternative embodiments for the connection device will now bedescribed with particular reference to FIGS. 25-27. In all respectsother than those described below, the stabilizer pad assemblies of FIGS.25-27 are identical to any one of the embodiments described with respectto FIGS. 4-24, and this aspect of FIGS. 25-27 will not be furtherdescribed. FIG. 25 illustrates a pad assembly 150 with a bracket 152 anda laminate 154. Bolt 156 includes a shaft 158 having threads 159 at oneend and a head 160 at the other end. Typically, head 160 is recessedwith respect to flap 153 and is glued, welded, braised or soldered ontoflap 153. A nut 162 is used in conjunction with threads 159 at the otherend of bolt 156.

[0098]FIG. 26 illustrates an embodiment in which a pin 164 is employed.Pin 164 includes a shaft 165 and a weld 166 at each end. Preferably, asin FIG. 25, each weld 166 secures each pin 164 to its associated flap153.

[0099]FIG. 27 illustrates another embodiment in which a rivet 170 isemployed. Rivet 170 has heads 172 and 174 at opposite ends and extendsthrough laminate 154 and flaps 153. Rivet 170 may be any conventionalrivet installed by a conventional rivet applying system so long as itpossesses the necessary strength and durability to hold togetherlaminate 154 and hold laminate 154 within assembly 150.

[0100] Another aspect of this invention will now be described with aparticular reference to FIGS. 28 and 29. Pad assembly 180 includeslaminate 182 which is formed of individual layers and which is identicalin all respects to laminate 54. Laminate 182 is held together by two endplates 184 and an associated plurality of bolts or pins 186 extendingthrough end plates 184 and laminate 182. Bolts or pins 186 may be a boltwith an associated nut (not shown), a rivet as depicted in FIGS. 28 and29 or any of the other embodiments shown in FIGS. 25-27. End plates 184typically are elongated strips of metal having a length substantiallyequal to that of flaps 58 as shown in FIG. 4. To provide greaterstrength, end plates 184 typically have a greater thickness than that offlaps 58. Disposed on top of the combination of end plates 184 andlaminate 182 is a top plate 188 which is preferably welded or braised orsoldered or glued onto adjacent portions of end plates 184. Top plate188 includes bolts 189. Bolts 189 are identical to bolts 46 as shown inFIG. 4 in all material respects.

[0101] In the method of this embodiment, typically the layers oflaminate 182 are precut and aligned as previously discussed. Holes aredrilled in the layers of laminate 182 for bolts or pins 186 at the timethe layers are cut and the holes for the layers are then aligned aslaminate 182 is formed. End plates 184 are cut and drilled with holescorresponding to those found in laminate 182. Thereafter, bolts or pins186 are passed through laminate 182 and plates 184. Finally, a plate 188which has been precut to overlap end plates 184 a distance sufficient toallow proper bonding is placed on top of the assembly of end plates 184and laminate 182 with bolts 189 already in place. Pressure is applied totop plate 188 to urge the heads of bolts 189 into laminate 182 so thatthe lower surface of top plate 188 is in engagement with or touching topsurfaces of end plates 184 to allow proper welding, soldering, braisingor gluing. Thereafter, plate 188 is affixed to end plates 184 along theentire length of end plates 184 preferably by soldering, welding,braising, or gluing.

[0102] This embodiment also permits the use of layers in laminate 182which are of a different width and does not require careful control ofthe total width of laminate 182 so long as it falls within generalranges determined by the size of top plate 188. Therefore, the assemblyprocess is somewhat quicker and tolerances related to the width of thelayers of laminate 182 need not be as carefully controlled. As a result,the assembly costs are reduced.

[0103] A thicker material than that of bracket 52 may be used for endplates 184, and top plate 188 since the material need not be bent orfolded in the assembly process. This particular construction could beused where the load and strength requirements are somewhat greater. Thisembodiment also obviates any steps previously discussed to avoid bowingof top plate 188. In another aspect of the invention, in each of theforegoing embodiments, the vertical dimension of the side flaps, such asflaps 58 or end plate 184 or the distance the side flaps extend belowthe top surface of the bracket, may be reduced by changing the shape ofthe bolt or pin, such as bolt 53, which passes through the side flapsand through the laminate to hold the two together. In particular, acertain spacing of the pin or bolt 53 below the top surface of thebracket is required to provide sufficient laminate material between thepin or bolt 53 and the top of the laminate to retain bolt or pin 53 inplace in the laminate and to prevent the laminate from being pulled outof the bracket during extreme stress conditions. For a rounded bolt orpin, the distance from the top surface of the laminate to the bolt orpin determines the retaining strength of the laminate, and thecircumference of the bolt or pin determines the length over which thelaminate engages the bolt or pin. A greater retention length and greaterstrength can be obtained if, instead of using a bolt or pin with acircular cross-sectional shape, as is illustrated in each of theembodiments of FIGS. 4-29, a square or rectangular pin or bolt is used.The use of flat bolt or pin surfaces requires less material between thebolt or pin and the top plate or top surface to provide the same levelof holding strength for the laminate. With a square pin or bolt, the pinor bolt may be placed closer to the top plate or top surface of thebracket than for a rounded pin or bolt, and shorter side flaps or endplates are required. Thus, for a given size laminate, more laminate isexposed below the side flap or end plate. The more laminate that isexposed, the longer is the life of the assembly, or the longer is thetime until the laminate is worn away to a point where there is nolaminate at all below the end plate or side flap. A somewhat similarresult may be achieved by using a semi-circular bolt or pin that has aflat surface facing upwardly towards the top plate or top surface. Thisresult is desirable, because the material cost for the laminate is highand it is costly just to increase the size of the laminate layers.

[0104] Another aspect of this invention will now be described withreference to FIGS. 30-32. This embodiment also permits a greater amountof laminate to be exposed for a given laminate size, and thereby alsoincreases the service life of the pad assembly. Pad assembly 190includes a bracket 192 and a laminate 194 formed of a plurality oflayers of material. Laminate 194 may be formed of layers 191 in the samemanner as laminate 54 as previously described. Bracket 192 includes endflaps 196 and side flaps 198. End flaps 196 and side flaps 198 may beformed or bent prior to assembly or formed at the time of assembly. Inaddition, as discussed with respect to previous embodiments, the foldlines for end flaps 196 and side flaps 198 may be preformed by removingmaterial or by a score line to allow more precise formation of the flapsand to prevent bowing of the top surface of bracket 192. Each of sideflaps 198 includes a lip 199, preferably extending from a lower, distaledge at an angle generally perpendicular to side flap 198. Lip 199extends into a correspondingly cut channel 195 or notch formed in theside of laminate 194. Lip 199, when assembly 190 is fully formed, isurged into tight engagement with channel 195 to retain laminate 194within bracket 192. End flaps 196 are also folded downwardly. To preventside flaps 198 from springing outwardly and permitting release oflaminate 194 from bracket 192, welds 193 may be applied at the cornersbetween side flaps 198 and end flaps 196 to hold side flaps 198 in adownwardly directed position to retain lip 199 within channel 195. Bolts197 are identical to bolts 46 in most all respects, and will not befurther described.

[0105] In the preferred method of manufacturing assembly 190, bracket192 is first cut from sheet metal stock. The fold lines for flaps 196and 198 may be preformed, as discussed above. Laminate 194 is formed oflayers 191, as discussed, and channels 195 are cut. Bolts 197 arepressed in place or otherwise inserted as previously discussed for otherembodiments. Thereafter, a forming tool bends flaps 196 and 198 abouttheir fold lines about laminate 194. During the forming process, lips199 are urged into channels 195, and preferably welds 193 are applied atthe corners of flaps 196 and 198.

[0106] In the embodiment of FIGS. 30-32, flaps 196 and 198 need notsupport any bolts or pins 53. Therefore, flaps 196 and 198 need not beas long, or have the same dimension as measured from the top surface ofbracket downwardly, as flaps 58. For a given size of laminate 194, morelaminate is exposed below flaps 196 and 198 and assembly 190 has alonger service life than assembly 50.

[0107] In FIGS. 30-32, the orientation of the individual layers 191 oflaminate 194 is crosswise to the long dimension of laminate 194 and thusbracket 192. There are three reasons for this orientation. First, theengagement between lips 199 and channels 195 is likely to be less securethan between a bolt or pin which is screwed, welded or otherwise affixedin place, and laminate 194. Therefore, laminate 194 is more likely tobreak free of bracket 192, and individual layers 191 are more likely tocome loose, than were a bolt to be used. Therefore, it is desirable tohave lip 199 engage laminate 194 in its longer direction to provide moremechanical interlocking between laminate 194 and lip 199 over a greaterlength and to engage each and every layer 191. Secondly, because of thesomewhat less secure affixation of laminate 194 to bracket 192, it ispreferred that assembly 190 be mounted on plate 22 such that the typicalsideways movement of arms 14 and 16 produces frictional interactionbetween laminate 194 and surface 11 in a direction parallel to thedirection of orientation of layers 191 rather than transverse thereto.Laminate 194 is more rigid in a direction parallel to the direction ofelongation of the layers, rather than transverse thereto. Application offriction parallel to layers 191 is less likely to cause laminate 194 orindividual layers 191 to pop out of bracket 192, than is the applicationof friction transverse of layers 191. Thus, the configuration shown inFIGS. 30-32 is most suited for the pad assembly disposed by itself atthe end of plate 22 as shown in FIG. 3. Thirdly, it is difficult, if notimpossible to cut layers 191 from truck tires to be sufficiently long toextend the entire length of assembly 190 in its long direction. Apractical limit on the layers 191 is imposed by the nature of theirsource.

[0108]FIGS. 33 and 34 illustrate a further embodiment of this aspect ofthe invention in which the direction of orientation of the layers of thelaminate is parallel to the direction of elongation of the pad assembly200. This embodiment is more suited to the pad assemblies 40 disposed oneither side of arm 14 or 16 on plate 22, as shown in FIG. 3. Assembly200 includes bracket 202 and at least one laminate 204 formed of layers205 of material, as previously discussed with respect to laminate 54.Because of the difficulty and cost of forming layers 205 sufficientlylong to extend the entire length of assembly 200, typically twolaminates 204 are employed, each having individual layers 205 extendingin the direction of elongation of assembly 200. However, a singlelaminate 204 extending the length of assembly 200 could also be used. Asin the embodiment of FIGS. 30-32, bracket 202 includes side flaps 208and end flaps 206. In this embodiment however, lip 209 is formed only onend flaps 206. Lips 209 extend into correspondingly formed channels 207formed on a confronting end surface of each laminate 204. Assembly 200also includes bolts 201, for mounting on plate 22, as previouslydiscussed.

[0109] Because of the greater length of assembly 200 and because of theneed to have a plurality of laminates 204, lips 209 and correspondingchannels 207 may not be sufficient to retain laminates 204 withinbracket 202. Therefore, a plurality of reinforcing splines 210 are usedto provide the necessary strength. Splines 210 extend throughcorrespondingly formed tunnels in laminates 204. Each spline 210 extendsfrom one side flap 208 to an opposite side flap 208. Preferably, eachflap 208 is provided with a correspondingly formed slot 212 that ispositioned so that an associated spline end rests on a small supportingstrip 214 of material which is part of side flap 208. Splines 210preferably are each welded at 216 to side flaps 208 in respective slots212. FIGS. 33 and 34 illustrate three splines 210, one disposed at thejunction of the two laminates 204, and one spline disposed approximatelyin the center of each of laminates 204. However, a single spline 210could be used at the junction of laminates 204, or two splines 210 couldbe used, one in each laminate 204. Additional splines also could be usedfor greater strength and rigidity.

[0110] Preferably, splines 210 have a rectangular or squareconfiguration with an upper flat surface 218. As previously discussed,such a square or rectangular configuration requires less supportinglaminate material to provide the same level of strength as a round oroval cross-sectional configuration. Thus, as with FIGS. 30-32, thelength or vertical dimension of flaps 206 and 208 may be less than thevertical dimension of flaps 58 or other like flaps in other embodimentsdisclosed herein, thus exposing a greater amount of laminates 204 belowthe lower edges of flaps 206 and 208 than with other embodimentsdiscussed in this application for a given size of laminates 204. Likethe embodiment of FIGS. 30-32, the embodiment of FIGS. 33 and 34 allowsthe construction of a pad assembly having a greater service life.

[0111] A final embodiment of this invention will now be described withreference to FIGS. 35 and 36. In this embodiment, pad assembly 220includes a laminate 222, a plate 224 and a bracket 226. Plate 224includes bolts 225 for mounting on plate 22 as previously discussed.

[0112] Laminate 222 is cut into a plurality of projecting portions 228having valleys 229 disposed therebetween. While three projectingportions 228 are disclosed, the number of projecting portions can bemore or less. Bracket 226 includes side walls 230 and end walls 232.Extending between side walls 230 are a plurality of strips 234. Eachstrip 234 is adapted to reside in an associated valley 229 in laminate222. Extending inwardly toward the laminate 222 at each end wall 232 isa lip 236 that is adapted to overlie an associated projection 238 oflaminate 222. Typically, bracket 226 is welded to plate 224 along endwalls 232 and side walls 230. Preferably, the layers 221 of laminate 222are aligned to extend between end walls 232 or crosswise to valleys 229and portions 228.

[0113] In the preferred method of assembly of the embodiment of FIGS. 35and 36, a laminate 222 is formed in the same manner as previouslydescribed with respect to the embodiment of FIGS. 4-6. Thereafter,valleys 229 are cut using a saw blade or some other like cutting tool,and the ends of laminate 222 are cut to form projections 238. Bracket226 is formed from sheet metal by forming and then bending end wall 232to form lip 236 and by cutting the remainder of bracket 226 from a pieceof sheet metal stock to leave strips 234 and to form side walls 230which are bent into the desired configuration. Bolts 225 are insertedthrough associated holes and held in place. Laminate 222 is placed onplate 224, and bracket 226 is placed over laminate 222. Thereafter,bracket 226 is welded or braised or soldered or glued to plate 224 alongend walls 232 and sidewalls 230.

[0114] The embodiment of FIGS. 35 and 36 is particularly suitable whereadditional frictional interaction between pads 18 or 20 and surface 11is desired. The embodiment of FIGS. 35 and 36 may provide a squeegeeeffect to enhance the frictional interaction with surface 11. Theorientation of layers 221 in laminate 222 as shown in FIGS. 35 and 36provides a stronger structure and more rigid projecting portions 228 toenhance the strength of the assembly. Since the orientation of layers221 is transverse to the direction of elongation of projecting portions228, assembly 220 could be used where there is movement of the pad ineither a direction parallel to the direction of elongation of assembly220 or crosswise thereto, since equivalent strength and rigidity isprovided in either direction. If layers 221 were to be oriented parallelto the direction of elongation of projecting portions 228, the resultingstructure could be too flexible to provide the desired frictionalengagement in certain situations. However, such an orientation in whichthe layers 221 extend in the direction of elongation of projectingportions 228 may be suitable for certain other applications.

[0115] Another aspect of the present invention will now be describedwith particular reference to FIGS. 37-39. Since the layers of thelaminate are not bonded together with glue or the like, it has beenobserved during use that the layers of the laminate sometimes tend toseparate, particularly where the pad is subjected to considerablemovement along the ground or to substantial forces in a directiontransverse to the direction of elongation of the individual layers ofthe laminate. Such movement or forces sometimes result in the laminatelayers closest to the flap of the bracket splaying outwardly away fromthe center of the laminate, particularly in embodiments such as thoseillustrated in FIGS. 28-34 where greater amounts of the laminate areexposed and unrestrained beyond the lower edges of the flaps. Thissplaying results in a less secure engagement between the ground surfaceand the pad and in more rapid deterioration of the pad assembly itself.

[0116] One solution to this splaying problem will now be described withrespect to FIG. 37. Pad assembly 240 includes a bracket 242 and alaminate 250 formed of a plurality of layers 252 and 254. Bracket 242includes flaps 244 and upper surface 246. Bolts 241 are provided forattachment of pad assembly 240 to plate 22, as previously described.Bracket 242 may be formed as previously discussed in accordance with anyof the embodiments of FIGS. 4-27. Splines 248 extend throughcorrespondingly formed tunnels in laminate 250, and each spline 248extends from one flap 244 to an opposite flap 244. Each flap 244 isprovided with correspondingly formed slots 249 into which the ends ofthe splines 248 extend. Preferably the ends of the splines are welded toflaps 244 within slots 249.

[0117] To maximize the amount of laminate available and to maximize thelife span of assembly 240, flaps 244 extend a minimum distance fromupper surface 246. Therefore, a maximum amount of laminate 250 isexposed beyond the lower edges of flaps 244. Layers 252 are disposedimmediately adjacent flaps 244, and have a shorter height as measuredfrom upper surface 246 then do layers 254. In effect, laminate 250 isstepped from flaps 244 up to layers 254. Because the height of layers252 is less than that of layers 254, less of layers 252 is exposedbeyond the edges of flaps 244. Also, layers 252 do not necessarilyengage the ground surface. For these reasons and because layers 252 arerestrained along a greater portion of their height as measured fromupper surface 246, layers 252 are less likely to bend or splay outwardlyaway from central layers 254. Also, this stepped configuration makes itless likely that the layers 254 adjacent to layers 252 will splay or bebent in a direction transverse to the direction of elongation of thelayers, since layers 252 will inhibit such splaying on the part oflayers 254.

[0118]FIG. 38 illustrates another configuration of the embodiment ofFIG. 37. Like numbers will be used for like parts where applicable. Inthis embodiment, to further inhibit splaying of layers 254, intermediatelayer 262 is provided between each layer 252 and adjacent layers 254.Layers 262 each have a height intermediate that of layers 254 and layers252 as measured from surface 246, so that a double step is provided tolaminate 250 on both sides. It is also noted that in FIG. 38, instead ofusing splines 248, a pin, bolt or rivet 264 is employed to hold laminate250 within bracket 242. Pin, bolt or rivet 264 may be any one of thoseemployed in the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 4-27. While FIG. 38illustrates two steps for laminate 250, it should be apparent to one ofordinary skill that laminate 250 could also have more than two steppedlayers. In fact, each layer in the laminate could have a greater heightthan an adjacent layer as measured from surface 246 on a side oflaminate 250 facing a flap 244, so that the height of the layers on bothsides of laminate 250 increases with each layer toward the center of thelaminate. The layer or layers at the center would have the greatestheights.

[0119]FIG. 39 illustrates another configuration of the embodiment ofFIG. 37. Pad assembly 270 is constructed much like that described inU.S. Pat. No. 4,761,021, which is incorporated herein by reference. Padassembly 270 includes a bracket 272 and a laminate 274. Bracket 272includes two angle irons 276 and 278. As discussed in U.S. Pat. No.4,761,021, angle irons 276 and 278 have respective upright legs 277 and279 through which pins 280 pass, and respective base legs 277A and 279A.Pins 280 extend through holes in upright legs 277 and 279 and throughlaminate 274. Pins 280 can be bolts, rivets or pins, as previouslydiscussed in this application with respect to FIGS. 4-27. Laminate 274includes layers 282 and 284. As discussed with respect to FIG. 37,layers 282, which are like layers 252, have a height less than layers284, as measured from base legs 277A and 279A, and are disposedimmediately adjacent upright legs 277 and 279 of respective angle irons276 and 278. The embodiment of FIG. 39 also provides resistance tosplaying of the layers 284 of the laminate 274. Base legs 277A and 279Aof respective angle irons 276 and 278 are spaced from one another alongtheir length sufficiently so that during assembly of pad assembly 270,angle irons 276 and 278 do not touch one another in the final, assembledproduct, so that sufficient compression is applied to laminate 274 byupright legs 277 and 279. Bolts 286 are provided for, attachment of padassembly 270 to plate 22, as previously described. The embodiment ofFIG. 39 could also be provided with the two-stepped or multiple-steppedconfigurations as described with respect to FIG. 38 for pad assembly274.

[0120] Reference is now made to further embodiments described herein inFIGS. 40-48. These embodiments are characterized by an improved grippingof the pad particularly when the pad is used on a paved surface, such ason asphalt or concrete. These pad constructions provide for bettergripping and less slippage between the pad and the surface that the padcontacts. In FIGS. 40-48 the support for each of the resilient pads,whether laminated or solid, can be by means previously described such asthe bracket arrangement illustrated in FIGS. 30-32 or a U-shaped bracketsuch as illustrated in FIG. 4 herein. In FIGS. 40-48 the details of theassembly of each of the pad assemblies is not repeated as the assemblyprocedures previously described may be used in fabricating these otherembodiments.

[0121] The embodiments described in FIGS. 40-48 are characterized by theresilient pad member having different portions thereof that include atleast first and second portions preferably adjacently disposed with thefirst portion extending a greater distance from the pad base than thesecond portion so as to form an uneven ground engaging surface. This canbe embodied in either a laminated pad or a solid pad, and in differentinventive embodiments described herein may be formed by differentsurface structures. The aforementioned first and second portions may bedefined by separate layers, may be defined by different areas within anyone layer, may be defined by different areas within a solid resilientmember, or may be defined in other ways.

[0122] In FIG. 40 there is disclosed a pad assembly 310 comprised of aU-shaped bracket 312 and a resilient pad 314. Bolts 316 may be used forsecuring the resilient pad 314 in place. This securing may be in amanner previously described with regard to earlier embodimentsillustrated herein.

[0123] The resilient pad 314 is illustrated as being comprised of aplurality of separate pad segments or layers 320. These layers 320 areheld fixedly in position between the sidewalls of the bracket 312 andare furthermore held in place by virtue of the bolts 316 passing throughholes in the layers 320. To provide anti-slip properties and improvedgripping of the pad, the top surface of the pad is constructed with awave configuration as illustrated at 324. This wave configuration may beconsidered as having a sinusoidal pattern, as specifically shown in aside elevation view in FIG. 41. Preferably, the range between the peakand the valley, illustrated as range A in FIG. 41, should be on theorder of ⅛ to ¾ inch. This embodiment also illustrates the dimension Bthat is essentially the measurement of the layer as it extends from thebracket to the wave configuration. This may also be termed the padexposure or wear dimension B. In this embodiment the dimension A shouldbe no greater than ⅓ of the dimension B, or stated another way, thedimension B is at least three times the dimension A. The dimension Apreferably is in a range of ⅛ to ⅓ of dimension B.

[0124] Reference is now made to FIG. 42 for a perspective view ofanother embodiment that has the properties of anti-slip and improvedgripping. This pad assembly 350 is comprised of a U-shaped bracket 352supporting a resilient pad member 354. The pad member 354 is constructedof separate laminate layers 360. The laminate layers 360 are held withinthe bracket 352 in the manner previously described and with the use ofbolts 356. To provide the gripping action, the ground contact surface ofthe pad has a ribbed structure defined by cross-grooves 366, definingtherebetween cross-ribs 364. These ribs and grooves define differentheights of the pad therebetween that may be on the same order ofmagnitude as the dimension A in FIGS. 40 and 41.

[0125] Reference is now made to FIG. 43 for a further perspective viewof a pad assembly 380 that is comprised of a bracket 382 and resilientpad member 384. In this embodiment the pad member 384, rather than beingconstructed of separate laminate layers, is constructed as a solidpiece. The ground engaging surface of the resilient pad member 384 isprovided with alternating grooves 392 defining therebetween ribs 390.Also, the contour of the ground engaging surface, as shown by the dottedline 396, is in a wave or sinusoidal configuration. This embodimentessentially combines the characteristics of FIGS. 40 and 42. In theembodiment of FIG. 43, the solid resilient member 384 is held inposition within the sidewalls of the bracket 382 and may also held inposition by means of the securing bolts 386.

[0126] Reference is now made to FIG. 44 that illustrates an embodimentof the invention somewhat similar to that illustrated in FIGS. 37-39 butincluding alternating height layers. In FIG. 44 there is disclosed a padassembly 410 that is comprised of a bracket 412 and a resilient laminate414. In this particular embodiment, laminate 414 has layers that arealternately arranged including greater height layers 416 and lesserheight layers 418. Preferably, in this arrangement the lesser heightlayers 418 are disposed next to the side walls of the bracket, asillustrated. In this embodiment the difference in the height of the padlayers may be substantially the same as the dimension A previouslydiscussed with respect to FIGS. 40 and 41.

[0127] In FIGS. 40-44, the support for the resilient member has beenprimarily by means of a U-shaped bracket. Now, in FIGS. 45-47 thesupport is by means of a bracket such as illustrated, by way of example,in FIG. 30 in which edges of the bracket engage with the resilientmember. Refer to previous discussions of means and methods of securingbetween the bracket and the resilient pad member, such as in FIGS.30-34. In FIG. 45 there is disclosed a pad assembly 440 that includes abracket 442 and a resilient member 444. The resilient member 444 is asolid resilient member in this embodiment. The gripping action isprovided by means of dimples 446 provided in a top surface 448 of theresilient member 444.

[0128] In FIG. 46 there is shown a pad assembly 460 that is comprised ofa bracket 462 and a resilient member 464. The resilient member 464 isalso a solid resilient piece and the gripping action is provided bymeans of a plurality of nubs 466 that extend from a top surface 468 ofthe resilient member 464. In the embodiments of FIGS. 45 and 46 it isnoted that the brackets 442 and 462 have inwardly turned edges thatengage with side slots in the corresponding resilient members 444 and464.

[0129] In FIG. 47 there is also disclosed a pad assembly 480 thatincludes a securing bracket 482 and a resilient member 484. Theresilient member 484 may be constructed from segments of a tire,particularly a truck tire, having on the ground engaging surface thereofa tread pattern as illustrated at 486 in FIG. 47. In this embodimentthere are shown slots 488 that extend lengthwise rather than crosswiseas in previous embodiments.

[0130] Reference is also now made to a further alternate embodiment ofthe invention illustrated in FIG. 48. In FIG. 48 the arrangement issubstantially similar to that described in FIG. 40, however, each of theindividual layers is staggered, one from the next adjacent one. This isillustrated in FIG. 48 by the layers 490 and 492. This lengthwisestaggering in the embodiment is illustrated by 180 degrees. In otherembodiments the staggering may be by other amounts such as 90 degrees or60 degrees. The staggering may also be only between adjacent layers orthe staggering can occur in sets of layers of three or more.

[0131] In view of the above description, it is likely that modificationsand improvements may occur to those skilled in the art which are withinthe scope of this invention. The above description is intended to beexemplary only, the scope of the invention being defined by thefollowing claims and their equivalents.

What is claimed is:
 1. Apparatus for stabilizing construction equipmentcomprising: at least one arm pivotally mounted to the equipment at aproximal end thereof; a pad disposed on a distal end of said arm, saidpad having at least one support surface; and a pad assembly disposed onsaid one surface of said pad, said pad assembly comprising: a bracket ofgenerally U-shaped cross section; and a pad captured by said bracket,comprised of a resilient material and having a pad base; said pad beingretained by said bracket; said pad having different portions thereofthat include at least first and second portions adjacently disposed withsaid first portion extending a greater distance from said pad base thansaid second portion so as to form an uneven ground engaging surface. 2.Apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein said pad is a laminated padhaving multiple layers with said first and second portions being inrespective layers.
 3. Apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein said padis a laminated pad having multiple layers with said first and secondportions being in the same layer.
 4. Apparatus as set forth in claim 1wherein said pad has a waved pattern that defines the first and secondportions.
 5. Apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein said pad has arib and groove pattern that defines the first and second portions. 6.Apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein said pad is solid and has atleast one of a dimple and nub pattern that defines the first and secondportions.
 7. Apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein said pad is solidand has a tire tread pattern that defines the first and second portions.8. Apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein said pad has multiplelayers with a wave pattern defining the first and second portions, andthe wave pattern is the same in each layer.
 9. Apparatus as set forth inclaim 1 wherein said pad has multiple layers with a wave patterndefining the first and second portions, and the wave pattern isstaggered in adjacent layers.
 10. Apparatus as set forth in claim 1wherein said pad has multiple layers with a wave pattern defining thefirst and second portions, and the wave pattern is characterized by apeak to valley dimension A that is less than the dimension B measuredfrom the end of the bracket to the wave pattern.
 11. Apparatus as setforth in claim 10 wherein dimension B that is at least three times thedimension A.
 12. Apparatus as set forth in claim 11 wherein dimension Apreferably is in a range of ⅛ to ⅓ of dimension B.
 13. Apparatus as setforth in claim 12 wherein dimension A is in a range on the order of ⅛ to¾ inch.
 14. Apparatus for stabilizing construction equipment comprising:at least one arm pivotally mounted to the equipment at a proximal end; apad disposed on a distal end of said arm, said pad having at least onesupport surface; and a pad assembly disposed on said one surface of saidpad, said pad assembly comprising: a support bracket; and a pad having abase captured in said support bracket and comprised of a resilientmaterial that defines a base surface; said pad being retained by saidsupport bracket; said pad having a ground engaging surface opposite tosaid base surface and defined as an uneven ground engaging surfaceformed of separate ground engaging pad surface areas that terminate atdifferent distances from said base surface.
 15. Apparatus as set forthin claim 14 wherein said pad is a laminated pad having multiple layerswith said pad surface areas being in respective layers.
 16. Apparatus asset forth in claim 14 wherein said pad is a laminated pad havingmultiple layers with said pad surface areas being in the same layer. 17.Apparatus as set forth in claim 14 wherein said pad has a waved patternthat defines the separate ground engaging pad surface areas, said wavedpattern defined as a sinusoidal pattern having peaks and valleys withthe distance between the peaks and valleys, dimension A, being less thanan exposure dimension of the pad, dimension B.
 18. Apparatus as setforth in claim 17 wherein the waved pattern is staggered in adjacentlayers.
 19. Apparatus as set forth in claim 18 wherein the dimension Bthat is at least three times the dimension A.
 20. Apparatus as set forthin claim 19 wherein dimension A preferably is in a range of ⅛ to ⅓ ofdimension B.
 21. Apparatus as set forth in claim 20 wherein dimension Ais in a range on the order of ⅛ to ¾ inch.
 22. A stabilizer pad that isused at the distal end of a stabilizer arm for supporting an operatingpiece of construction equipment, said pad comprising; a resilient memberand a retaining member, said resilient member having a planar base sideadapted for support by said retaining member; and including a pluralityof resilient pad segments extending substantially in parallel from saidbase side; said resilient pad segments defining, at a side thereof thatis opposite to said base side, an uneven ground engaging surface that isformed of at least first and second segment portions with said firstsegment portion extending a greater distance from said pad base thansaid second segment portion.
 23. A stabilizer pad as set forth in claim22 wherein said pad segments comprise separate resilient pad layersforming a laminate construction, said first and second segment portionsdefining a wave pattern as the uneven ground engaging surface.
 24. Astabilizer pad as set forth in claim 22 wherein said wave pattern isdefined as a sinusoidal pattern having peaks and valleys with thedistance between the peaks and valleys, dimension A, being less than anexposure dimension of the pad, dimension B.
 25. Apparatus as set forthin claim 24 wherein the waved pattern is staggered in adjacent layers.